Special Report:
What's Next for ECEs?

In This Issue:

Underwater RobotsDaniel Stilwell is developing a platoon of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that will both study the ecological effects of man-made nutrients on Virginias coastal waters and help develop search, survey, and tracking methods for the U.S. Navy.

E-TextilesComputer engineers in Torgersen Hall may be weaving the future of specialized fabrics  e-textiles that can be used to sense tank movements, monitor homes for noxious chemicals, help firefighters maneuver in smoky buildings, and perhaps help stroke victims...

Embedded SystemsAs embedded systems become more mobile and widespread, the issues for systems designers grow more numerous and critical. Sandeep Shukla wants to boost the productivity of embedded systems designers...

Fuel CellsFuel cells are creating a buzz lately, touted as a zero-emission energy source for homes, automobiles, even cellular telephones. It is not hype, but there some challenges, according to Jason Lai, an ECE associate professor.

Wireless Video NetworkingWireless video networks for environmental monitoring, homeland security, and military use are still future technology. Thomas Hou has developed a novel architecture and traffic management plan to overcome some of the major obstacles...

Demand for ECEs in a Sluggish MarketIn spite of a weak economy and a sluggish job market, electrical and computer engineers are still in demand in some regions and industries, according to a survey of alumni Bradley Fellows and Scholars. The alumni cite a general weakened demand, however...

Networking CourseThanks to a donation of equipment and cash from Intel, ECE and CS students have the opportunity to learn and use the latest wireless networking and mobile computing technologies in a new course in "Wireless and Mobile Systems Design."

NewsVT Autonomous Vehicles for MuseumWhile designing and building a museum exhibit about future transportation technology, a student/faculty research team has incorporated some new control robotic sensing and technology.

NewsHoley Optical FibersFibers with holes less than a micron in diameter almost entirely eliminate optical non-linearities and dispersion, and provide exotic optical characteristics. VT researchers developed a process to create random-hole fibers, which could lower costs and enable the use of different materials for holey fibers.

NewsIPEM Concept in UseCPES researchers advocate the vision of an integrated system approach via standardized building blocks, referred to as IPEMs. In 2002, industry followed suit and came out with a range of products that eliminate wirebond...

Blue Diamond TransistorECE researchers took part in building the world's first inverter totally based on an SiC Silicon Carbide (SiC), or blue diamond, which allows the device to operate at 300°C temperature or higher. Work continues...

World's Largest MOS Controller Power Switch
The Emitter Turn-off (ETO) thyristor developed by CPES is the worlds largest MOS controller power switch. The switch turns off 4000 A in less than 5 microseconds while blocking up to 4500 V.